Read Dangerously: Young Adult Banned Book Club
In this ongoing class, we will read, discuss, and analyze young adult books that are on challenged and banned books lists.
Beth Orsini
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(8)
What's included
1 live meeting
50 mins in-class hours per weekHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students should read or listen to the book before class, and note any particular passages, themes or plot points that they think would make for interesting discussion. Great resources for books are: Bookshop.org, Libro.fm (audio), local booksellers, and many local libraries and their electronic networks, such as Hoopla, Libby or Overdrive.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
"Any book worth banning is a book worth reading." --Isaac Asimov. Books are banned for many different reasons, ranging from violence to religion to race to gender identity and more. Whatever the reason, it's about ideas that challenge the way people think. "What do you notice? What do you wonder?" This course is all about thinking--wondering and asking questions--about the books we read. Why might this book be challenged? What ideas might be considered "dangerous"? What are MY thoughts about this topic or theme? We will meet every week to discuss a a book that is on the current PEN America list of banned and challenged. In an open, relaxed atmosphere, we will talk about the book and analyze the plot, characters, and themes of the book together. I will challenge students explore their own biases, share specific passages or quotes that they found impactful or possibly problematic, and back up their thoughts with text evidence. This is an ongoing class, so please message me through Outschool to find out which book we are reading. Below is not an exhaustive list. We will add more books as weeks progress, and will not cycle through for quite some time (unless someone has as request for a specific title!) Week of 1/12: The 57 Bus Week of 1/19: The Hate U Give Week of 2/2: Clap When You Land Week of 2/16: All American Boys Speak The Perks of Being a Wallflower Lawn Boy Flamer All Boys Aren't Blue Gender Queer: A Memoir I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close Homegoing
Other Details
Parental Guidance
As this is a course exploring banned books, topics including race, religion, violence, gender identity or sexual orientation may be discussed. Parents should research the books before enrolling to determine if it is appropriate for their child.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
We will refer to and discuss the books mentioned in the course listing.
Joined July, 2022
5.0
8reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Massachusetts Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Hi, I'm Beth! I have been teaching middle school ELA for over 15 years, and am certified for grades 5-12. Reading and writing are two of my greatest passions. I love books so much that I have even opened up my own pop-up bookshop!
My classes are all about supporting and guiding readers-writers-thinkers. We think about writing as a craft. We dig deep into meanings and connection. And, we celebrate good writing--whether our own or a favorite author's. My reading classes are steeped in discussion and help with comprehension, critical thinking, and evidence-based conclusions. Writing classes are interactive, using models and practicing writing and revising.
When I'm not teaching, I am busy hanging with my fam. I have two teenage girls (who keep me on my toes), and two cats whose hobbies are: sleeping in the sun, meowing for food, and chasing each other around the house. I enjoy traveling, hiking, weight-training, reading, and sharing books. One day I hope to write a children's book based on my cats, entitled, "Mr. Plumber and the Worm". Join one of my classes and ask me why!Reviews
Live Group Class
$20
weekly1x per week
50 min
Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
3-9 learners per class
